Single-Tube Heart Pump Pressurization for Minimally Invasive Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cup-shaped heart pumps require multiple tubes for supplying both positive and negative fluid pressures, which occupy space and interfere with surgical instruments during minimally invasive procedures.
Innovation Solution
A single pressure tube connected to a fluid pump and a valve assembly that controls fluid flow to provide both positive and negative pressures, allowing the cup assembly to be advanced, maintained, and removed from the heart using a programmed pressure profile.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tubes are used to supply positive and negative fluid pressures, then the heart pump can provide both suction and pressure functions, but the tubes occupy space and interfere with surgical instruments during minimally invasive procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate tubes (suction tube and pressure tubes) into a single integrated tube that can deliver both negative pressure (suction) and positive pressure (inflation) to the heart pump. This merging eliminates the space occupation and interference problems of multiple tubes while maintaining the full functional capability of providing both suction and pressure control during minimally invasive procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The single tube is designed to perform multiple functions: it can supply negative pressure for suction during insertion and positioning, and subsequently supply variable positive pressure for inflating the membranes to assist heart function. This multi-functional tube replaces the need for separate dedicated suction and pressure tubes
2Reliability
If multiple tubes are used for suction and pressure supply, then the heart pump can be properly positioned and operated, but the tubes flex and move during operation due to changing internal pressures
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple tubes into a single tube, the system reduces the number of separate components that can independently flex and move. The single tube structure provides greater overall stability while still accommodating the varying pressure requirements through controlled fluid delivery
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tubes are provided through a small incision, then the heart pump can receive both suction and pressure, but the usable space for surgical instruments is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fluid control tubes into a single tube that passes through the incision site. This consolidation significantly reduces the space occupied in the surgical field, thereby increasing the usable workspace for surgical instruments while maintaining the ability to provide both suction and pressure control functions
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively utilizes a single tube to manage fluid pressures, reducing space requirements and minimizing interference with surgical instruments, facilitating minimally invasive procedures.
Implementation Method 1
A single pressure tube connects the cup assembly to a fluid pump. The fluid pump alters the gas or liquid fluid flow to and from the cup assembly in accordance with a programmed pressure profile.
Implementation Method 2
A valve assembly is incorporated into the cardiac assist device. The valve assembly includes one or more valves. A pressure valve controls fluid flow between the receptacle area and the single pressure tube.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid controlled system for a cardiac assist device and its method of operation. The cardiac assist device has a cup assembly with a receptacle area. The cup assembly has at least one inflatable membrane that expands into the receptacle area. A single pressure tube connects the cup assembly to a fluid pump. A valve assembly is incorporated into the cardiac assist device. The valve assembly includes at least one valve that controls fluid flow between the inflatable membranes and the pressure tube and/or fluid flow between the receptacle area and the pressure tube. The valve assembly controls fluid flow to advance the cup assembly onto the heart, to maintain the cup assembly in an operable position, to operate the cup assembly, and to remove the cup assembly.